Education on bushfire warnings essential for Brisbane residents

1st September 2015 7:18 AM

Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) is urging Brisbane residents to take the time now to familiarise themselves with bushfire warning messages and decide what actions they would take if a bushfire occured in their area.

RFSQ Acting Brisbane Regional Manager Robert Walker said bushfire warnings were issued to provide valuable and concise information during a bushfire event.

“Residents of greater Brisbane need to understand the different types of bushfire warnings and that emergency services may issue these warnings during an incident to inform residents to take action,” Mr Walker said.

“Bushfire warnings are issued through media and social media channels to provide details to residents on what steps they need to take to survive the bushfire.

“The type of warning issued by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) is in line with the severity of the fire and potential to impact your property.”

Mr Walker said there were three levels of warning used in bushfire warning messages.

“A WATCH and ACT message is saying conditions are changing and you need to start taking action and follow your Bushfire Survival Plan.

“The highest level of bushfire warning messages is an EMERGENCY WARNING. This message implies you are in danger and now is the time to action your Bushfire Survival Plan.

“It’s essential for all Brisbane residents to educate themselves and their families and understand the levels of warnings to ensure they aren’t confused or panicked if a warning is issued for their area.”

Mr Walker also reiterated that now is an ideal time to sit down with family members to complete and practice a Bushfire Survival Plan.

“Having a Bushfire Survival Plan and understanding bushfire community warnings could mean the difference between life and death,” he said.

“Your Bushfire Survival Plan should be in writing and practiced regularly. It should also take into consideration the ages and physical capabilities of everyone in the household, including children and elderly.”